Training of officers on VR use

As part of the Erasmus+ project ‘Virtual Reality  - a tool in the treatment of criminal offenders and training of probation officers’, a training of probation officers was held in Bucharest with the participation of representatives of the Croatian and Romanian prison and probation system

The training programme focused on the development of core treatment skills that form the basis of work with offenders. It covered the topics of prosocial modelling, problem solving, motivational interview and cognitive-behavioral interventions, as fundamental approaches in modern treatment work.

In addition to theoretical lectures and interactive exercises, the training included an innovative component of virtual reality (VR) learning. Through the project, a total of eight scenarios had been developed that allow officials to go through realistic practical situations in a virtual environment, develop skills and make decisions in a safe and controlled environment. This approach enables experiential learning at one’s own pace, without the risk of real consequences, which further increases the quality of the training.

The application of VR technology in training and treatment work represents a significant step forward in the modernisation of the probation system. The combination of classical methods and digital tools contributes to a more efficient acquisition of knowledge, while the developed VR content ensures the long-term sustainability of training materials and their application in everyday practice.

This hybrid model of learning has been recognised as one of the most effective methods of professional development, which directly contributes to better work with offenders, their rehabilitation and successful reintegration into society.